Panthers sign head coach Paul Maurice to a multi-year contract extension

This just in, the Florida Panthers have named head coach Paul Maurice to a multi-year contract extension. Maurice's contract with the team was set to expire after this season.

From the Panthers:

“Paul has resolutely led our organization to unprecedented success during his relatively short tenure in South Florida,” said GM Bill Zito in a prepared statement. “He is a superb communicator and leader for our staff and players, possessing a keen strategic mind for the game. We are excited for Paul and his staff to continue to keep the Florida Panthers as a destination franchise for the foreseeable future.”

The 57 year old Maurice guided the Panthers to their first Stanley Cup championship in franchise history last season, the first Stanley Cup championship of his career, as well.

Maurice has coached 1,855 career NHL games split between the Panthers, Winnipeg Jets, Carolina Hurricanes, Toronto Maple Leafs and Hartford Whalers. He's 2nd all-time in NHL games coached, behind the legendary Scotty Bowman.